Wuthering Heights has already established itself as a robust Valentine’s Day contender, generating $3 million from preview screenings ahead of its theatrical release. The romantic drama, directed by Emerald Fennell and starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, is poised to dominate the domestic box office with projections for a substantial opening weekend haul exceeding $50 million.
The film’s sweeping love story has caught audiences’ attention, with strong early returns indicating that viewers are enthusiastically supporting its portrayal of the Brontë novel’s tumultuous romance. Industry analysts attribute these positive numbers not only to widespread buzz and strategic counterprogramming but also to the perfect timing as Valentine’s Day approaches.
Early projections suggest Wuthering Heights will emerge victorious in this weekend’s competition, expected to outperform other films set for release during the same period. The film’s unique approach to the romantic genre, which mixes historical drama with modern elements, is proving particularly appealing to couples and romance enthusiasts looking for a heartwarming experience.
In comparison, two additional wide releases are attempting to capture different segments of the audience. GOAT, an animated sports comedy produced by Stephen Curry, aims at families and younger viewers, while Amazon Studios’ crime thriller Crime 101 offers a darker alternative targeted at adult audiences seeking a more mature cinematic experience.
Despite these other films also generating substantial interest, Wuthering Heights’ strong preview numbers are setting the tone for what is set to be one of the year’s most anticipated weekend frames. Its theatrical release on February 13 marks its debut, joining an already diverse lineup that includes a range of genres such as romance, animation, and crime drama.
Wuthering Heights’ origins trace back to August 2024 when Emerald Fennell announced her intention to adapt the classic novel by Emily Brontë. Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi were cast in pivotal roles: Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Elordi as Heathcliff, with Robbie also producing under LuckyChap Entertainment alongside MRC Films.
A bidding war ensued between Netflix and Warner Bros., culminating in a $80 million distribution deal that allowed Fennell and Robbie to proceed with the film’s theatrical release. The decision to cast Jacob Elordi for the role of Heathcliff, despite his race being racially ambiguous, sparked controversy, particularly given earlier discussions about casting issues. In response, additional actors including Charlotte Mellington, Owen Cooper, and Vy Nguyen were added to the ensemble to represent diverse backgrounds.
Principal photography took place from late January until early April 2025 in the United Kingdom, utilizing 35mm VistaVision cameras with scenes shot at Sky Studios Elstree and across various locations within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.